Ivory Coast has officially taken control of the Port-Bouët military base, marking the end of France’s longstanding military presence in the country. In a symbolic ceremony on Thursday, French officials formally handed over the facility to the Ivorian armed forces, with a traditional changing of the guard to signify the transition of security responsibilities.
The move is part of a broader shift in France’s military strategy across West Africa, where its troops have been gradually withdrawing from several countries. French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized that while the nature of France’s presence is evolving, it is not disappearing entirely. Around 80 French military personnel will remain in Ivory Coast to provide training and advisory support to the Ivorian army.
End of an Era for French Military Presence
For decades, Port-Bouët served as a critical French military outpost, hosting around 1,000 troops tasked with counterterrorism operations in the region. These forces played a key role in efforts to combat jihadist threats, which have plagued several West African nations. However, as part of a phased withdrawal, French troops will gradually leave over the course of 2025, with only a small contingent staying behind to assist with training and strategic military cooperation.
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Despite the military shift, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong diplomatic and defense ties. During the ceremony, Ivorian Defence Minister Tene Birahima Ouattara described the transfer as a step toward deeper cooperation between France and Ivory Coast.
“This act marks a new era in the friendship and strategic collaboration between our two countries,” Ouattara said. He also announced that the base would be renamed in honor of General Thomas d’Aquin Ouattara, the first Chief of Staff of the Ivorian army.
A Broader Regional Trend
Ivory Coast is not the only West African nation recalibrating its military relationship with France. In recent years, several countries, including Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal, and Chad, have requested the departure of French forces. Analysts view this trend as part of a broader restructuring of the region’s ties with its former colonial power, with many governments seeking greater autonomy in managing their security challenges.
In response to the shifting geopolitical landscape, France has been working on a new military strategy aimed at redefining its role on the continent. While its direct military footprint is shrinking, Paris is focusing on maintaining partnerships through training programs, intelligence-sharing, and targeted security cooperation.
